President William Ruto has extended the mandate of the Taskforce on Human Resources for Health by an additional 60 days.
Initially established on July 5, 2024, the 20-member taskforce was to serve a six-month term.
However, in a Gazette Notice dated December 13, President Ruto announced the extension, effective January 5, 2025.
“It is notified for the general information of the public that, I, William Samoei Ruto…has further extended the period of the taskforce appointed vide Gazette Notice No. 3039…,” it reads in part.
It is chaired by Khama Rogo with Judith Guserwa acting as the vice chairperson.
Members include Patrick Amoth, John Masasabi, Toseef Din, Wilson Aruasa, Doreen Rhoda Kanyua, Dennis Miskellah and Francis Wafula.
Others are Habiba Mohamed, Lucy Mburu, Collins Kiprono, Victor Miseda, Christine Okoth, Carolyne Mage, Jacinta Rwamba, Justina Wamae, Kanyenje Gakombe, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana and Benard Ondeng Otieno Choi.
The President named Edna Tallam-Kimaiyo and Morris Kaburu as joint secretaries for the task force.
Hezron Omollo and Vivienne Eyase were appointed secretaries for the task force.
It is tasked with identifying and recommending legal, policy, administrative, institutional and operational human resources for health reforms in Kenya.
According to Ruto, there is a need to assess and address current challenges and gaps in the recruitment, replacement, training and retention of healthcare professionals.
“The management of human resources for health is a shared function between the two levels of government. The key challenges are however fragmentation and a disconnect in the management of health services and personnel,” he said.
Ruto further said the task force is mandated to review the performance of Human Resources for Health (HRH) in Kenya and recommend improvements.
It shall also advise and recommend the legal, policy, administrative, institutional and operational framework for the management of human resources for health without undermining devolution.
The team has also been tasked with reviewing and advising on the harmonisation of the terms of employment for all healthcare workers in the spirit of equal work for equal pay.
The task force has the power to regulate its procedure and hold meetings with officials of National and County Governments, public forums or consultations as it deems necessary.
It shall also review official reports, policy, legislation or any other documents related to the Taskforce mandate.
The task force has the power to co-opt experts in particular areas of need as may be necessary for the execution of its mandate.
The task force is mandated to create sub-committees for the efficient and expedited discharge of its mandate.
by FELIX KIPKEMOI
